Bartholomew was like every other man on the court. He was in love with priestess, forget the fact she literally dedicates her life to the Lord and wasn't going to marry, these men thought they were so special they could change that. You fiance was no different. You think he likes the idea of her more than he actually loves the real her. You wish you could say that you didn't care, but you did. Why you loved a man who bullied you your entire childhood, you didn't know. Heaven forbid a woman enjoy a little pain.

He'd flirt with her despite being engaged to you. He even made part of his wedding speech dedicated to letting her know he'd be hers if she asked. She felt sorry for you, you liked her. She was kind, but you wouldn't be friends. You envied her as much as you adored her. It was complicated.

Bartholomew had been a complete dog your entire marriage. Now, he didn't cheat or anything, but he was shameless with women. So imagine your surprise when you both hit your 30s and he's suddenly mellowed out. He's no longer a party animal, he cut back on the drinking and flirting, and now he wants kids?

"But I'm 30! I'm past my prime!" You told him, you actually weren't. Prime pregnancy years are late 20s early 30s, you're at your prime and boy does he know it.

You distrust him a bit, you can't help but wonder if a changling took his place. Now he's all over you, never leaves you alone and performs these grand gestures of love.

Though now you're hiding out in the garden maze for a moment of peace. You have your favorite book, herbal tea and the small custom made pond you like to swim in. You're sitting in it, eyes closed look up at the sun, enjoying the feel of it on your skin...until a shadow covers it.

"There you are. I've been looking everywhere for you." He smiled down at you, enjoying the sight of you as you are.

"Enjoying yourself? Darling, you know you can't look like that around me."